Controversial Islamic cleric, Sheik Ahmad Gumi, has expressed disagreement with the Federal Government over its recently released list implicating individuals and entities in terrorism financing in Nigeria.
The list, revealed by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, includes 15 entities, comprising nine individuals and six Bureau De Change operators and firms, allegedly involved in terrorism financing. Notably, Kaduna-based publisher Tukur Mamu, an ally of Gumi, was named as the primary individual linked to terrorism financing.
According to the document, Mamu stands accused of facilitating ransom payments amounting to $200,000 US to ISWAP terrorists in exchange for hostages from the Abuja-Kaduna train attack.
Gumi, speaking during a Twitter spaces event organized by Daily Trust, refuted the government’s allegations, stating that no Nigerian would willingly fund terrorism. He argued that terrorist groups finance themselves through ransom payments obtained from kidnapped victims’ families, rather than external funding sources.
The cleric criticized the labeling of individuals as terrorist financiers by security agencies, emphasizing the need for a fair trial process before such accusations are made public. He stressed that cases should be adjudicated in court rather than through media trials.
Regarding Mamu’s case, Gumi advocated for a judicial process to determine guilt, cautioning against premature judgments in the court of public opinion. He emphasized the importance of allowing the legal system to ascertain individuals’ involvement in criminal activities.
Gumi’s remarks come amidst his recent efforts to initiate dialogue with bandits involved in the abduction of schoolchildren in Kaduna State. He urged President Bola Tinubu to consider negotiations with bandits, citing the potential for resolving conflicts through dialogue rather than military intervention.
